Nusret Gökçe, the Turkish restaurateur who gained viral fame as Salt Bae, has left the internet in a frenzy on more than one occasion due to his seductive slicing and salting of prime cuts of meat. This week, though, Salt Bae has people in a tizzy for a different reason thanks to his peculiar behavior at the World Cup final.
On Sunday, Team Argentina took home the win at Qatar's Lusail Stadium following an intense match against France, and as the team celebrated their win on the field with friends and family, they were joined by Salt Bae for some reason.
As if his appearance on the field wasn't already head-scratching enough, numerous clips online show Salt Bae attempting to hold the FIFA World Cup trophy, which he eventually does. But holding the trophy was hardly enough for the steakhouse owner; he also kissed it, sprinkled it with imaginary salt, and gave it a playful smack.
"A collection of Salt Bae trying for clout with these players. So painful to watch. Like forcing himself between 2 players and trying to take the trophy away while players try to maintain professionalism, but their faces can be clearly read they are annoyed," tweeted @JCUStreaks10.
In addition to serving up a hearty helping of second-hand embarrassment, it also broke FIFA rules, according to a statement on the FIFA website.
"As one of the most recognised sports symbols in the world and a priceless icon, the original FIFA World Cup™ Trophy can only be touched and held by a very select group of people, which includes former winners of the FIFA World Cup™ and heads of state," read the statement.
We're guessing Salt Bae doesn't fit under any of those categories.
